Configuring Private DNS and DNS Over TLS on Android

In this tutorial, we will guide you through the process of configuring Private DNS and DNS over TLS on your Android device. These features allow you to enhance your privacy and security by encrypting your DNS traffic and bypassing potentially insecure third-party DNS resolvers. Let's get started!

Prerequisites

• An Android device running Android 9 (Pie) or above.
• Administrative access to your device's settings.

Step 1: Open Network Settings

1. Unlock your Android device and navigate to the Settings app.
2. Scroll down and tap on Network & internet.

Step 2: Access Private DNS Settings

1. Under Network & internet, tap on Advanced.
2. Scroll down and choose Private DNS.

Step 3: Configure Private DNS

1. In the Private DNS settings, you will see three options: Automatic, Private DNS provider hostname, and Off.
2. Choose Private DNS provider hostname.
3. Enter the hostname of the Private DNS provider you want to use. For example, you can enter dns.google for Google Public DNS or 1dot1dot1dot1.cloudflare-dns.com for Cloudflare DNS.
4. Tap Save to apply the changes.

Step 4: Verify Private DNS Configuration

1. Once you have configured the Private DNS, open a web browser on your Android device.
2. Visit a website and ensure it loads successfully.
3. If the website loads correctly, your Private DNS configuration is successful. If not, verify the hostname you entered or try a different Private DNS provider.

Step 5: Enable DNS Over TLS

1. Go back to the Settings app on your Android device.
2. Tap on Network & internet.
3. Scroll down and choose Advanced.
4. Under Advanced, tap on Private DNS.
5. Select the Private DNS provider hostname option again.
6. Enter tls.cloudflare-dns.com as the hostname for Cloudflare DNS over TLS or dns.google for Google DNS over TLS.
7. Tap Save to save the changes.

Step 6: Verify DNS Over TLS Configuration

1. Open a web browser on your Android device.
2. Visit a website and ensure it loads successfully.
3. If the website loads correctly, DNS over TLS is enabled and working properly. If not, ensure the hostname you entered is correct and try restarting your device.

Congratulations! You have now successfully configured Private DNS and DNS over TLS on your Android device. Enjoy enhanced privacy and security while browsing the internet.

Note: It's important to note that not all Android devices support Private DNS and DNS over TLS. If you do not have the option available in your device's settings, consider upgrading to a newer Android version or installing a custom ROM that supports these features.